Common Car Emission Problems
Automobile Maintenance

Common Car Emission Problems to Be Aware Of

When your vehicle is experiencing emission problems, it can lead to a variety of issues— especially if you’re trying to pass an emissions test. Luckily, there are a few signs that will let you know whether your car difficulties are associated with emissions. 

So, how can you figure out what’s wrong with your ride? Well, take a look at the content below to learn the signs of emission problems.

The Smell of Gasoline

Do you smell gasoline when you drive your car? If you do, that could be a sign that your car is experiencing emission problems. When the exhaust system components are burdened with high heat, moisture, road debris, and scraping, it could create rust and holes within the parts.

 As a result, it’ll transfer fumes from the front of your car to the back of it. Any hole or crack within the components of the exhaust system can create fumes that leak into your car’s cabin. It’ll even let off fumes from the tailpipe.

 If that happens, you’ll definitely be able to smell a strong scent of gasoline.

A Hissing Sound

Another telltale sign of a rusted or cracked exhaust is a loud hissing noise coming from the engine. If you hear that, it’s an indicator that there is an exhaust leak within the manifold gasket. In most cases, you’ll hear the sounds when the engine is cold or accelerating.

Lower Fuel Economy

If you notice that you have to fill your tank more than usual, that’s probably because there’s an issue with your oxygen sensor or catalytic converter. Both of these components tell your car how much fuel it needs. However, when they are malfunctioning, it causes extra gasoline to flow through the engine. That process ultimately causes minimized fuel efficiency

Unfortunately, if you ignore this problem, your car’s performance will eventually decline. Not only that, but there’s a good chance that it could cause you to fail a car emissions inspection.

A Burnt Smell Coming from the Engine

Leaking exhaust gases that come from the engine are extremely hot. Therefore, they can burn through the plastic parts of your engine. If that happens, you’ll smell a burning aroma from the engine. 

Also, you may notice smoke coming from underneath the hood of your car. It’s one of those visible signs that there’s a major issue, and you should get emissions repair as soon as possible.

The Telltale Signs of Emission Problems

As you can see, there are several ways that your car will let you know that it is experiencing emission problems. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, get them fixed immediately. You’ll definitely want to get things taken care of if you are trying to pass a car emissions inspection.

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